What is Parole?

Parole is a way of letting approved prisoners serve part of their sentence in the community once the Board decides they are not an unacceptable risk to the safety of the community.

Prisoners on parole are usually supervised and must comply with certain conditions in order to remain in the community. These conditions are designed to protect the safety of community members and to monitor prisoners’ circumstances and behaviour.

Parole does not free prisoners from their sentence. Prisoners on parole continue to serve their sentence in the community where they can further their own rehabilitation and restore their relationships. Parole also helps them to adjust so they can become successful and contributing members of the community.

Parole is a privilege and is only given to prisoners who comply with prison rules, are truly committed to maintaining a positive lifestyle and becoming a contributing member of the community.

Common misconceptions about parole

Parole is not shortening a prison sentence.

Parole is not granted for compassionate reasons.

Parole is not a reward for good behaviour in prison.

Parole is not automatically granted to first time offenders.

Parole is not compensation for being unable to participate in a treatment program in prison.